The last time I posted was the first time I ran outside since the fall. My pace has improved significantly with the adjustments to my mechanics and I was so stoked to get away from the treadmill. Surprisingly, I haven't had to get back on the treadmill since then. The cold set back in but I discovered that I actually kind of like running in the cold!
To be fair, that day was my coldest run ever. It gets quite a lot colder around here, but blessedly it's nearing spring. I've changed up my routine a bit to include runs on Mondays and Wednesdays before work, physical therapy on Tuesday, and spin class with my PT strength exercises on Thursday. Rest Friday and a long run over the weekend. I've been following a Hal Higdon half marathon training plan that is ramping up my mileage every couple of weeks.
I had to back off last week when my shins were hurting a bit but this week they've been quiet and I followed the plan all the way to five miles! Actually, I had a bit of a false start with Runkeeper and had an additional 0.3 miles logged separately at the start so actually today's run was closer to 5.4 miles. Joe came along with me and we did intervals of 2:15 runs with 30 second walk breaks. It was nice to have someone to talk to and the run went by really quickly. I was surprised to note that after the first couple of miles (which felt oddly difficult) I was able to carry on a normal conversation with him without panting or having to pause. I've finally found that mythical place where I can talk to someone while I'm running!! Coming back into our neighborhood I was still feeling plenty darn good. It's funny because just a couple of weeks ago after running 3 miles on the treadmill at physical therapy I blustered in exasperation to my physical therapist, "WHEN IS THIS GOING TO START GETTING EASIER??"
Good news: I didn't have to wait long!
Ten days ago after a 3 mile run I was literally having that panic moment. You know the one: "Oh my God what did I get myself into?? I can barely run three miles, how the HELL am I going to run 13???" I'm sure that one will pop up again, but for now I feel like I've shut it down. For the moment.
In other news, beyond the half marathon in May, Joe and I are taking our first trip together without the kids to the Florida Gulf Coast in June. I. Cannot. Wait.
For real - I'll be able to sit on the beach and read without having to worry about keeping an eye on both of my small children simultaneously! Beyond that, we have sent the deposit on our beach house in Myrtle Beach this year for August! We are going to stay in the same house as last year with all the same group. I'm looking forward to more early morning work outs beneath the house as well as some long runs on the beach in both places! I'm strongly considering taking a stab at 80 Day Obsession after seeing the how happy my Beachbody family is with the program. My biggest hang up there is the nutrition. I'm terrible at eating correctly :( I think getting my nutrition under control would help me go from pudgy-skinny to toned, though.
I'm still thoroughly enjoying my job and the additional hours I've gained to spend with the kids - they are taking swim lessons and both starting soccer this spring!
We are about to get very busy. Thanks for sharing in the journey!
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